It is a vigorous bulbous perennial, growing to 15–20 cm (6–8 in) tall, with grass-like leaves, and yellow flowers in early Spring.

It is valuable for its bright yellow flowers that appear in early spring with other bulbs such as snowdrops and Cyclamen coum.

Due to its small size it is very suitable for growing in a shady rockery or trough.

It is a parent of the Cyclamineus Group of hybrid daffodil cultivars, which includes popular varieties such as 'February Gold', 'Jetfire', 'Jack Snipe' and 'Tête à Tête'.

Narcissus cyclamineus has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.